La Fleur en Papier Doré cafe to reopen under new management in May

The legendary Brussels artists’ cafe La Fleur en Papier Doré/Het Goudblommeke in Papier is set to re-open in mid-May, reports Bruzz.

After closing last August due to post-Covid financial problems and the end of its lease, the building’s owner, Brussels’ public welfare centre CPAS-OCMW, put out a call for new tenants.

Taking on the challenge is Gilles Lantez, the owner of Brasserie Verschueren in Saint-Gilles. The experienced businessman was quick to throw his hat into the ring as his brasserie partner had been interested in running the café some 15 years ago when it was first declared bankrupt.

"So when the CPAS-OCMW Brussels started the search a few months ago, neither he nor I had to think long about it," said Lantez.

Located in Rue des Alexiens, La Fleur en Papier Doré boasts an iconic artistic-literary heritage. It was once a regular meeting place for the pioneers of the Belgian surrealist movement. As a popular haunt for some of Belgium’s most illustrious artists and performers, regulars included Paul Alechinsky, René Magritte, Hugo Claus, Jacques Brel, Louis Paul Boon and Toots Thielemans.

In addition to being a typical dark, pokey Brussels bar serving local specialities, the cafe was revered for its atmospheric interior. The faded walls bore testimony to its 75-year-old history with an evocative collection of works and objects, while the courtyard contained a comic strip fresco by De Marck and De Wulf (Stam et Pilou).

Respect for the establishment’s heritage was among the conditions set for taking over the business. Lantez has no plans to change the interior. While aiming to tempt clients with an interesting beer menu, he also plans to continue to offer food.

A celebratory launch is expected around mid-May.

The title of this article was updated on 21 April.